It's an honor just to be considered... and it's a heck of a surprise when that consideration is extended from the monolithic GOP to a good Democrat. District 16 Democrat Ann Tornberg reports on Facebook that Governor Dennis Daugaard's office may actually be considering her to replace resigning District 16 Rep. Patty Miller:
My sincere appreciation to all my supporters from District 16 who contacted the Governor's Office and recommended that I be nominated to fill the position left vacant by Patty Miller's resignation. You reminded the Governor that I received enough votes in the 2012 General Election to be eligible for a recount, losing by only 124 votes out of a total of 11,000 cast. While the Governor's Office told me they do not keep count, I have been. According to my own tally from those of you who contacted me, close to 200 calls or emails were sent. I had a phone interview last week and have been told the decision will be made by the end of May. Thanks to everyone, and regardless of the appointment process (which will likely be political rather than based on 2012 voter preferences) I'll continue to see you at District 16 community events and again on the 2014 campaign trail! [Ann Tornberg, public Facebook post, 2013.05.02]
A good candidate should be willing and able to serve. By running twice in District 16 (and apparently promising above to run again next year), Tornberg has clearly shown her willingness. Her experience as a teacher, farmer, and labor rep show she's definitely able. A lot of callers and writers agree... and the Governor apparently recognizes that support.
Thank you, Ann, for being willing to serve, and thank you, Governor Daugaard, for being willing to consider her. Now pick Tornberg to represent her neighbors! She'll do a good job... and she'll make life more interesting in Pierre!
Tornberg has been a District 16 resident for 42 years. She is a graduate of Beresford High School in 1974, Augustana College in 1977, and completed her Master’s Degree in Secondary Education and Speech Communication at USD in 1984. She is currently a retired teacher after 31 years in the field.
Ann Tornberg spent 23 years at Beresford High School from 1977-2000 teaching English, speech and debate, and then taught at Lincoln High School until 2005. During these years, Mrs. Tornberg coached over 400 students in speech and debate and won numerous coaching and professional awards. From 2005-2008, she left the classroom on full-time release when she was elected President of the Sioux Falls Education Association (SFEA). As President of SFEA, she worked with many state legislators from both parties on education issues.
During this last session of the legislature Ann Tornberg was serving in Pierre as a Legislative Aide for the Democratic Caucus.
Mrs. Tornberg helped me craft my oratory speech back in high school. Hopefully she'll get this appointment.